The pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is a unique environment. The aim of this study was to describe admission and outcome patterns of cases managed at the Cairo University’s PICU between the years 2004 and 2005. 492 cases were admitted, of which 60.16% were males and 39.84% were females, with a median age of 2.86 years (range 4 days-15 years). The majority (55%) of cases suffered multiple organ system failure. The most common admission diagnostic group was the respiratory category (40.04%). The total mortality rate was 31.7%. SOFA scores were significantly higher among non-survivors.